GoboLinux is a distribution which sports a different file system structure than 'ordinary' Linux distributions. In order to remain compatible with the Filesystem Hierarchy Standard, symbolic links are used to map the GoboLinux tree to standard UNIX directories. A post in the GoboLinux forums suggested that it might be better to turn the concept around: retain the FHS, and then use symbolic links to map the GoboLinux tree on top of it. This sparked some interesting discussion. Read on for more details.

I refer you to my previous comment that .fonts is a hidden directory which the average user will not stumble over.

Why should anyone(expect developers and distribution makers) care where the fonts are located? Hidden directory or some kind of magic location, like a fonts folder, are just as pointless. Just right click and select to install it, either as a system or user font. The MIME types should also handles this, and start a font installer when font files are clicked.

Obsessive micro management like this are just pointless, let the system handle it. Average users have more than enough work handling their documents and other user files to be bothered with system files. And for developers the FSH are already handles this in a logical, robust, proven and well known manner.